BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES

This course is an intensive study of the gross and microscopic structure of the human body including the four major types of tissue and their subgroups, and the following organ systems: integumentary, skeletal, muscular, circulatory, respiratory, digestive, urinary, reproductive, endocrine, nervous, and sensory. Functions of the organ systems are included at the introductory level to prepare students for a course in Human Physiology. Laboratory assignments develop the skills of observation, investigation, identification, discovery and dissection. The use of actual specimens, including cat dissection and observation of a human cadaver, is emphasized to assure that students learn the relative structure, functions, textures and variations in tissues not incorporated in models. Supplemental materials such as models, photographs, charts, videotapes, and digitized images are also provided. This course is required for students preparing for many Allied Health professions including, but not limited to, Nursing, Respiratory Therapy, Physical Therapy, Physical Education and Kinesiology Training, and Physician's Assistant and is a prerequisite for Human Physiology 3.

This survey course explores the principles of biology using humans as examples. It includes introductions to the scientific method, cell biology, heredity, evolution, human ecology, behavior, and the major concepts of structure, function and pathology of most organ systems. The course may serve as an introduction to the future study of biology, including anatomy and physiology, or stand by itself as a non-lab life science course for general education students.

This course emphasizes developmental, comparative and gross anatomy as applied to various disciplines such as clinical medicine, anthropology, art, illustration, kinesiology, and pathology in order to demonstrate practical and professional applications of anatomy. The laboratory experience includes individualized instruction in (virtual for online) dissection of the human body. Students prepare seminars on specific anatomy topics for presentation to faculty and other students. Guest lecturers and field trips may be included.

This general biology course is for transfer students who are not biology majors. Topics include basic molecular and cellular biology, genetics, the anatomy and physiology of plants, animals and humans, the diversity of life, evolution, and ecology. Current environmental issues and new developments in biological science are discussed. Laboratory experiences are integrated and stress scientific methodology and thinking. Credit is allowed for either BIOL 3 or BOTANY 1, but not both.

This survey course covers ecological principles including ecosystem structure and function, population dynamics and the interdependence of living organisms. Current environmental issues and controversies such as global warming, biodiversity and species extinction, habitat destruction, food and energy resources and pollution will be explored. Strategies for sustainable living will be emphasized.

This course introduces students to basic concepts of environmental biology through the study of evolution, ecology, and conservation biology. The course is designed for both major and non-major environmental science students. It is intended both as preparation for upper division Environmental Science classes, but also as general education for all students interested in a more in-depth understanding of current biological and environmental issues. By the end of the course, students should be able to use scientifically sound information to critically analyze complex environmental issues from around the world. Students will gather and analyze basic research data and apply the scientific method to conservation-related projects. Laboratory and field experiments are integrated and stress scientific methodology and thinking.

This survey course of marine organisms and their relationships to their environment emphasizes intertidal and offshore life forms. Included is an investigation of behavior, ecology, morphological and physiological adaptations and environmental relationship to humans. This course is three hours each of lecture and laboratory work.

Please see Internships section.

This is the first course of a three-course lecture and laboratory sequence for Biology majors, including Biology 21, 22, and 23. It describes how scientists approach the scientific method to generate scientific knowledge; studies the history, evidence, and mechanisms of evolution; identifies the chemistry of four classes of macromolecules; elucidates the cell principle including cell structure, function, and physiology; describes general energy metabolism; and illustrates the processes of growth and reproduction through mitosis, meiosis, development, and life cycles. Students are required to perform at least two experiments that require data collection, computer-based data management and graphing, and scientific analysis and interpretation of data. The course is designed to meet the needs of students transferring to upper division biology study.

This is the second course of a three-course lecture and laboratory sequence for Biology Majors, Biology 21, 22 and 23. It focuses on the structure, function and transmission of genes from the perspectives of genetics and molecular biology. A strong foundation in genetics and its relationship to molecular biology is developed through problem solving. Students perform experiments that require data analysis and demonstrate interpretations in laboratory reports. Application of Internet databases for bioinformatics is used to show relationships between DNA and protein sequences. The course is designed to meet the needs of students transferring to upper division biology study. It is strongly recommended that students also enroll in Chemistry 21 which is required for transfer. Any online section of BIOL 22 will be taught as a hybrid with all lab meetings scheduled for in-person learning on the SMC campus.

This is the third of a three-course lecture and laboratory sequence for biology majors. Organisms at and above the cellular level of organization are examined, with plants, invertebrates, and vertebrates receiving equal attention. Topics emphasized include morphology, physiology, systematics, ecology, evolution, and behavior. Additionally, each student must complete a term project which includes lab or fieldwork and library research. Transfer credit is limited if students enroll in other overlapping Biology courses or Zoology 5.

This course will introduce students to the broad spectrum of the biotechnology field and workforce, with content that will be accessible and appropriate to students and professionals from diverse disciplines. This course is designed to prepare students to enter the growing biotechnology workforce or to transfer. Students that complete this course will be eligible to take the Los Angeles Regional Bioscience/Biotechnology Industry-Valued Credential. Topics explored in this course include basic molecular and cellular biology, introductory genetics, biomanufacturing, microbiology, agriculture & bioremediation, chemistry, environmental health & safety, quality assurance & regulation, business, ethics, and biotechnology company structure. These concepts are explored by means of class discussions and projects, reading assignments, and lab activities. The course is intended as preparation for the intermediate and advanced biotechnology skills and methods courses as well as internships. By the end of the course, students should be able to describe the general structure and operating practices for a biotechnology company, demonstrate knowledge of fundamental biotechnology concepts in a molecular biology context, and express understanding of biotechnology applications and ethical practices.

This techniques-focused course will provide knowledge and skills in the use of antibody-related reagents and antibody-based assays as a tool in biotechnology, biomedical research, or clinical laboratories. It focuses on the specific properties of antibody reagents for the identification and quantification of various biological or environmental molecules. Students learn basic immunology, the theoretical basis of antigen-antibody reactions, micropipetting techniques, and how to design, perform, analyze, and troubleshoot modern immunoassay-related techniques. The course will prepare students for work-ready skills in a bioscience research and biotechnology industry career.

This course will introduce students to fundamental molecular and protein chemistry techniques that are essential to the biotechnology field and workforce. This course is designed to prepare students to enter the growing biotechnology workforce or to transfer. Students that complete this course will be prepared for the biotechnology internship course and to take the Los Angeles Regional Bioscience/Biotechnology Industry-Valued Credential or equivalent exams. Topics explored in this course include maintaining an industry standard notebook, following and writing SOPs, and utilizing a digital quality management software; lab safety regulations, aseptic technique, and quality control protocols; preparing and sterilizing solutions, reagents, and experimental materials; usage and maintenance of state-of-the-art laboratory equipment; bioinformatics; and amplifying, extracting, purifying, and analyzing polynucleotides and proteins. These concepts are explored by means of class discussions and projects, reading assignments, and lab activities. The course is intended as preparation for the advanced biotechnology skills and methods courses as well as internships. By the end of the course, students should be able to demonstrate competency in following and editing SOPs, explain fundamental molecular and protein chemistry methods, and apply their training to use and maintain laboratory equipment.

Please see Independent Studies section.

Please see Internships section.

This course provides an overview of photosynthetic organisms (the Plant Kingdom, photosynthetic Monerans and Protistans) and Fungi. Flowering plants are emphasized. Topics covered include a survey of botanical life forms, taxonomy, the structure, development and function of cells, stems, roots leaves, flowers, and seeds; chemistry, photosynthesis, respiration, plant physiology, Mendelian and molecular genetics, genetic engineering, evolution, and ecology. Scientific thinking skills will be developed in laboratory exercises. One or more labs are field trips to local natural areas or Plant society meetings. Credit is allowed for either BIOL 3 or BOTANY 1, but not both.

This course involves study of several types of microorganisms with emphasis on bacteria. Principles of microbiology, metabolism, genetics, immunology, and medical and nonmedical applications are considered. The laboratory includes aseptic transfer techniques, cultural characteristics, methods of microscopy, and analytical techniques for identifying microbial organisms. The course content is related to both general and clinical applications including recent molecular biological and serological techniques.

Human nutrition, integrating anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, and psychology, is studied in relation to wellness and degenerative disease prevention. Scientific information and principles provide the foundation for evaluating current concepts in nutrition for practical application in daily living.

This course explores the fields of Dietetics and Nutrition, including trends, future projections, and employment opportunities. The course offers an overview of the dietetics profession including career options, professional development, continuing education, code of ethics, state and national standards of scope and practice, professional values, creativity, Academy of Nutrition and Science position papers and evidence-based references and resources. Additionally, each student will be guided through the process of creating a resume, the processes of building a portfolio and networking through the district dietetic association and contribute to the nutritional status of the community. Service learning may be used in this course.